APRA Leadership’ll Reflect on Future of Public Relations in Africa – VP Mekeme
The African Public Relations Association (APRA) will enhance its influence across the continent to focus on collaboration and inclusivity among national associations, Dr. Michele Mekeme, Vice President of the association, said.
Dr. Mekeme said the aim is to strengthen African public relations and position it as a significant player on the global stage.
The APRA VP emphasized that APRA’s strategy centers on empowering national associations, which she believes are the backbone of a cohesive public relations community in Africa. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by individual countries, she advocates for a tailored approach that respects regional dynamics, ensuring that every nation’s voice is acknowledged.
“Strengthening collaboration among the heads of national associations is crucial,” Dr. Mekeme stated. “By addressing the unique needs of each country, we can foster a more inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives within the public relations community.”
According to her, APRA has formed specialized committees comprising seasoned professionals from across Africa. These teams aim to introduce fresh insights, foster professional development, and enhance APRA’s presence on the global stage.
“We are harnessing the diverse talent within our ranks to address essential areas in public relations and communications,” Dr. Mekeme noted. “This initiative aims to build capacity and encourage innovation throughout the continent.”
The road towards a revitalized APRA is paved by a diverse group of representatives from several African nations. Leaders like Lamia Rahal from Algeria, who promotes sustainable economic development; Carolina Barros from Angola, an award-winning figure in media communications; and Dr. Ike Neliaku from Nigeria, a veteran in strategic communication, exemplify the rich tapestry of expertise within APRA.
Profiles of representatives such as Gambia’s Madikay Njie, Ghana’s Esther A. N. Cobbah, and Malawi’s Benson Linje highlight a commitment to bridging gaps in knowledge and practices among nations, thereby ensuring that PR strategies align with local contexts.
Looking ahead, Dr. Mekeme envisions continuous mentorship and resource provision that will empower member nations to carve a niche in the competitive global public relations landscape. “Our future goals include establishing deeper networks of support and facilitating platforms for knowledge sharing across borders,” she explained.
The vision for a united APRA, as articulated by Dr. Mekeme, aims not only to support African public relations practitioners but also to raise their profile on the international scene. “We want to position African public relations as a vital force, capable of influencing global conversations and fostering local resilience,” she affirmed.
She further noted that APRA’s renewed focus will potentially transform how African nations engage and communicate both domestically and on the global platform.
